The Humanities Faculty includes History, Geography, Religious Education, Politics and Law. All teachers contribute towards both their own subject specialism as well as other subjects within the faculty. The faculty consists of five full time and three part time staff. It has its own suite of rooms and is well resourced with books and other teaching materials.

Humanities is a thriving faculty within the school. We are a very supportive team, which thrives on supporting our colleagues and preparing them for promotion. We encourage a wide range of techniques and new ideas and believe in the highest possible rigour in our teaching. We have a strong and supportive discipline system where necessary.

In Years 7-9 the Humanities subjects are each taught for one, one hour ten minutes lesson per week. At GCSE this increases to two lessons and at A Level to four. We believe field trips are very important, and in the past we have visited places such as Leeds Castle, Kentwell Hall and the D-Day landings of Normandy.

Extract from the Ofsted 2004 on History

The trend in GCSE results has, over the past five years, been above the national average.

Pupils achieve well and make good progress in Years 7 to 9. By the time pupils reach the end of Year 9, standards are beginning to rise above those achieved nationally. The upward trend in teacher-assessed levels at the end of Year 9 has been maintained since the last inspection.

A strong feature of the most effective lessons is the teacher's command of the subject, together with the challenge for pupils to give their best. Where good teaching takes place, pupils are fully engaged, enthused and make valuable contributions to discussions. Teachers have high expectations and, as a result, pupils are encouraged to achieve well. Where teaching is innovative and experienced, pupils make good progress owing to the teacher revisiting the key points for learning with challenging tasks to give a sense of urgency to the learning. A range of questioning styles ensures pupils remain attentive throughout lessons. Careful attention is paid to improving pupils' standards of literacy with teachers using clear and concise terminology, ensuring pupils fully understand the meaning and significance of new vocabulary. Pupils show a positive attitude to learning, taking a pride in their work and exhibit enjoyment in their lessons.

Regular assessments of progress are made which are fed back to pupils with targets for their future progress. Homework is used effectively to reinforce.

Extract from the Ofsted 2004 on Geography

Teaching and learning are satisfactory in Years 7 to 9 and good in Years 10 and 11. Teachers have a good geographical knowledge and apply it well in their teaching. Long and short-term planning is good. GCSE course work is well presented. Written work is checked regularly. Pupils have good attitudes to the subject, which helps to underpin learning. Geography is now an improving and developing department.